Post by Chris on Aug 3, 2006 13:38:35 GMT
RIP CURRENTS.
DON’T GET CAUGHT OUT.
DON’T GET CAUGHT OUT.
Rips are strong currents running out to sea that can easily take swimmers from shallow water out
beyond their depth. They are responsible for a number of drownings each year. Rip currents are
particularly powerful in larger surf, but can also be found around river mouths, estuaries and
man-made structures like piers and groynes.
Spotting a rip current.
It’s not easy to identify a rip current, but here are some common signs to look out for:
• Discoloured, brown water (caused by sand being
stirred up from the seabed).
• Foam on the water’s surface.
• A break in the surf line where the waves are not
as big.
• Debris floating out to sea.
• A rippled patch of sea, when the water around is
generally calm.
Getting out of trouble.
• The most important thing is to remain calm
and try not to panic.
• Keep hold of your body board, surfboard or
inflatable and don’t fight the rip current.
• Signal to someone on the beach that you need
help by raising your hand and shouting for help.
• Try and swim parallel to the beach until you are out
of the rip current, then swim towards the shore.
• Never try and swim directly towards the shore
against the rip current.
• If you can stand up, wade instead of swimming.
REMEMBER: try not to panic if you encounter a rip current, it will only make you
more tired and reduce your ability to reach safety.